Tips for Improving Your Home Office

Working from home can be a daunting task, not only for those with attention span problems, but those of us with ergonomic concerns (not to mention matters relating to: time management, brainstorming and lunchtime fun).

Typically, the most common issue to overcome for home offices revolve around space. The best way to go about picking out the ideal place to set up shop is by designating an actual room for an office; this may seem unnecessary, but if you’re using this office for a full-time job, chances are, it will be one of the most commonly used areas of your home. That being said, it needs to be comfortable, but removed from all other functions. It should be, ideally, a room with a door because it psychologically helps you ‘leave work.’

The desk

Via pinner Stephanie Beaty

A home office, is generally set up in the smallest room in the house, so maximizing the use of space is paramount. If you are dealing with a smaller room, consider an L-shaped desk to make it really obvious that it’s a work space. Other unique ways to reshape a bedroom into an office is by taking off closet doors and tucking a desk in that space; though the view may be lacking, this creative solution looks incredible if its done right and saves a bunch of space. Don’t forget to purchase a good, ergonomically correct chair to keep those back muscles in tip-top shape!

Shelving/Storage

Via marthastewart.com

If you’ve ever worked in an office before (especially if you’ve shared an office), you know the importance of storage. Bottom line: you can never have enough. The problem is that bookshelves can occupy a lot of space and crowd the room, without providing too much of a comfortable atmosphere. The solution? Filing chests. Not only are these chests easy to find, coming in all sorts of price ranges, but they look stunning and offer an excellent disguise to otherwise, totally boring paper storing furniture.

Lighting

Making sure the room is adequately lit shouldn’t be an area of neglect because it keeps you alert and stimulates productivity. Whether you’re going with ceiling lights or floor lamps, bear in mind that this will play a big role in how you feel ‘at work.’ If there are windows in your office, try and set up your work space in direct light.

Personalize!

Via sheknows.com

Our favourite! Never forget to personalize your space. Keep in mind that one of the best parts of creating a home office is that you have the complete liberty of designing it according to your tastes. Exercise that freedom! Find beautiful and motivating paintings, use patterned pillows or throws on sofas and wallpapers, or incorporate plants to create the perfect zen. Another adorable and convenient idea that is trending these days is using a chalkboard wall for a calendar.

So, when you're out searching for your new home, keep a few of these tips in mind when picturing your office space!